Leave early to avoid Chennai traffic and enjoy a scenic coastal drive on ECR; this route passes Muttukadu, Kovalam and Mahabalipuram. Travel time to Pondicherry is 3–4 hours depending on stops and traffic.
Small conservation park showcasing crocodiles and reptiles — good first stop for the group to stretch legs and see wildlife close to the road. Check opening hours before you go (usually around 9:00am to 5:00pm).
Arrive Pondicherry, check into accommodation and freshen up. Lunch at Surguru or local south-Indian restaurant for fast, group-friendly meals. (Surguru: reliable South Indian thalis; open earlier afternoon).
Peaceful ashram with meditation spaces and samadhi of Sri Aurobindo & The Mother. Visiting hours typically morning and afternoon (often 6:00am–12:00pm and 2:00pm–6:00pm) — check current timings and photography rules before visiting.
Late-afternoon walk along the Promenade to see French colonial buildings, the War Memorial and the sea. Promenade is open 24/7 — ideal for sunset photos and a relaxed group walk.
Le Café (seafront 24-hour café) is great for light meals and seaside ambience; Villa Shanti offers a refined sit-down dinner with Indo-French options — book a table for a group of 11.
French-style bakeries (Baker Street) and Café des Arts serve good breakfast pastries, eggs and coffee — ideal to fuel a full-day Auroville trip. Cafe timings around 8:00am onwards; confirm for early large-group service.
Arrive at Auroville Visitor Centre (Open typically 9:00am–5:00pm) to collect maps, pre-book Matrimandir viewing (if required) and get local guidance. Visitor Centre is the gateway for Matrimandir bookings.
If you have pre-booked viewing slots, visit the Matrimandir viewing point/meditation room; viewing must be reserved in advance — limited slots per day. Check Auroville official site and book early for a group this size.
Walk around Auroville’s boutiques (handmade paper, pottery, organic shops) and quiet green spaces — good for souvenirs and relaxed exploration before heading to the beach.
Spend a late-afternoon on Serenity Beach or Auroville’s quieter shoreline for swimming and sunsets. Beaches are open all day; bring sunscreen and water. Water-sport options may be available seasonally.
Return to Pondicherry and dine at a calm bistro — La Terrace offers varied choices and Naturellement has healthy vegetarian options. Reserve for a group.
Take a 1.5–2 hour guided walk to see colonial villas, colorful streets, and learn the French-era history. Book a local guide who can lead a small group or split into two groups for easier navigation.
Government Museum exhibiting sculptures, archeological items and colonial-era artifacts — usually open around 10:00am–5:00pm (closed on certain weekdays; check day-of-week).
Historic temple (active worship site) near the beach followed by a calm walk in Bharathi Park — temple timings are usually 6:00am–8:30pm but check for aarti times and dress respectfully.
Well-kept gardens with flower beds, glasshouse and musical fountain sections — usually open around 9:00am–6:00pm; verify timings and fountain show schedule.
Boat house offers motorboat ride to Paradise Beach (boat runs roughly 9:00am–5:00pm; confirm schedule). The scenic backwater boat ride and beach access are highlights for groups.
Spend the day at Paradise Beach: swimming, sunbathing and optional water sports (kayaking, parachute rides when available). Boats operate in scheduled shifts; check return timings and lifeguard availability.
Retrace route to Chennai — choose ECR for scenic coastal views (adds leisure stops) or NH32/Tindivanam for the slightly faster inland route depending on traffic and your schedule.